Mick Mars, born Robert Alan Deal, is an American musician and songwriter best known as the co-founder and longtime lead guitarist of the heavy metal band Mötley Crüe. Throughout his tenure with the band from its inception in 1981 until his retirement from touring in 2022, his heavy, blues-based riffs and melodic solos became a signature part of their sound. Mars has publicly battled ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory form of arthritis, for most of his adult life, which ultimately influenced his decision to stop touring. Despite his health challenges, he remains a highly respected guitarist in the rock community and released his debut solo album, 'The Other Side of Mars,' in 2024.